by Ludwig van Beethoven/arr. H. Owen Reed (Grade 5, 9:00)
An excellent orchestration for band from 1954 of a set of five variations on a theme from Beethoven’s String Quartet No. 5 (1800). This is an artistic alternative to the typical band repertoire and it offers excellent opportunities to teach Classical style, form, counterpoint and the life of Beethoven. Beethoven’s variations are beautifully suited for a colorful orchestration into the concert band medium. A rousing march is heard in the fourth variation. How many times do concert bands get to play Beethoven? A timeless work.
 
“… masterfully scored for winds while retaining the quality and character of the great master’s skills. This is a wonderful vehicle for wind band students to experience the music of Beethoven first hand!” – Jack Stamp, Conductor/Composer, Indiana University of Pennsylvania